How much will my other college expenses cost?

When it comes to figuring out how much college will cost, tuition is just the beginning. Carefully managing expenses and planning out ways to pay for them can reduce the likelihood of overspending and accumulating unnecessary debt. Here are a few steps you can take to help you afford these additional college expenses.

Plan your courses carefully. Returning to school for an additional semester to get that one last required course is expensive.

Work study, on campus jobs, or a part-time job are examples of possible ways to offset some of those incremental expenses.

Step 3: Create a budget.

Once you have a good idea of how much college will cost, creating and sticking to an actual budget for yourself can help you live within your means. A cash flow worksheet can help provide an account of where you’re spending your money (rent, books, gas) and where you’re earning money (part-time job, work-study, savings). If you’re spending less than you’re earning, you’re in great shape. However, if your expenses exceed your income, it would be wise to look at where you could cut back, or how you could bring more money in.

If you’re starting out as a new student, college may be the first time you’ll be solely responsible for your regular budget. By going in with a plan, you can better prepare yourself to handle this new responsibility.